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Duct Tape Dangers

Duct tape is an adhesive material used to hold or bond building materials or household materials together. The tape was originally designed by the military to repair and seal ammunition cases in 1942, but is now widely used for a variety of other mainstream consumer uses. It is made up of reinforced polyethylene and most often used to repair or seal leaking ducts or air conditioners. Like all tools, it should be used responsively or injuries may arise.

  1. Some Contain Asbestos

    • One of the concerns with duct tape comes with the ingredients that are included with some brands. According to the Mesothelioma Resource Center, in 2007 an independent group found that a number of duct tape companies were selling tape that contained asbestos. Airborne asbestos causes respiratory problems and in some cases cancer in individuals who are exposed to the toxin over long periods. Although most companies have since ceased to manufacture tape containing asbestos, older duct tape that is found around ducts or furnaces may contain traces of asbestos. Tape containing asbestos is easy to spot because it is usually white in color, rather than the silver that's most common.

    Suffocation

    • Duct tape is often used as a sealant, preventing both air and moisture from entering areas. One of the dangers with duct tape is suffocation, which can result if it is placed over someone's mouth or nose. It can also present problems if scraps of the duct tape are left around the house and an infant swallows the bits of tape, which may block the child's airway. Duct tape is a tool and can become dangerous. All remnants of duct tape should be properly disposed of in waste bins and away from young children.

    Body Suffocation

    • Another danger with duct tape is its ability to keep the flow of oxygen from reaching an individuals skin. The skin breathes, absorbing oxygen that is used to circulate around the human body. If a person's body is covered by a nonbreathable material, like duct tape, there is a danger of rendering the individual unconscious, and in more serious cases, sometimes causing death. This concern applies to a situation in which over 80 percent of the body is covered.

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